Soul of East, Spirit of West

Song of a Teacher (by Aryan Bahrambeigi, 2004) 

"Who is the Self that teaches?"*

A soul, aspiring for a greater purpose,

With a vision to make a difference. 

But also, one in search of happiness, 

Truth of kind, to live with integrity, 

The liberty to be free as I. 

Yet, who is this I?

Writing these verses through the night?

I, raised gentle and kind, traveling near, 

Traveling far, to discover answers,

I carried within all along. 

Born on a Monday morning,

My journey as a teacher, also

Commenced on a Monday’s dawn. 

First time, I wrote “Mr. B” on the board,

I could have never imagined,

All I would learn from my students.  

I took an oath on that first day,

To teach with passion from my soul, 

And to set aglow the joys of learning. 

I felt an immense responsibility,

As I stood across my students. 

Each day, I prayed for their safety,

And asked God for the courage to teach. 

I’m a Teacher, I strive to make a difference,

I believe in the potential of each student.  

  They are the hope for a brighter future.   

* Question from the book “The Courage to Teach” by Dr. Parker Palmer